Bum Bot DIY Vigilante Robot

Bum Bot is a DIY remote-controlled security robot created by Rufus Terrill, owner of O'Terrill's pub in Atlanta, GA.

The Bum Bot earned its name by chasing street people away from the area; its bright red lights and spotlight clearly defining unwelcome elements. The device has an internal speaker so the operator can share his thoughts with the people on the street.

Bum Bot is a scrap roboticist's dream:

An environmental engineer by day, Terrill gathered the makings of his vigilante for three months. A three-wheel scooter gives the Bum Bot mobility. A home-alarm loudspeaker attached to a walkie-talkie gives it a voice. Its head is a former home meat-smoker. The red lights are from a 1997 Chevrolet, and it's powered by four car batteries...

The robot's shell is made of steel and plywood, covered in rubber gym mats painted black and nicked by rocks, bricks and other objects people Terrill was rousting have thrown at it. Terrill programmed the Bum Bot's bulky remote himself.

A variety of special interest groups, including homeless advocates and Georgia Tech's Robotics and Intelligent Machines Center, have reacted negatively to the bouncer bot.

However, Terrill was tired of having his bar vandalized and receiving threats - including having guns stuck in his face - by locals. His wife suggested he patrol a safer way - with a robot.

(Bum Bot guard robot)

Terrill needs to quicken the pace of innovation; here are some store-bought guard robots with more features: